Interfaith Response to the Noose Found at 18th & Lombard

What:Concerned faith leaders from Center City will gather at the tree on 18th and Lombard to pray and publicly challenge the act of hate perpetrated to instill fear in African Americans and in our city.

Why:On Thursday, July 6, a noose was found hanging from a tree on the southwest corner of 18th and Lombard. This abhorrent act will not divide us. Though the hate crime was directed at our African-American sisters and brothers, it was also an attack on the values of tolerance and diversity upon which Philadelphia was built and that Philadelphians hold dear.

When: On Thursday, July 13 at 6 pm at 18th and Lombard St., Center City friends and neighbors are invited to “take back the tree” through acts of love and prayer. “We will make a witness of solidarity and concern for our sisters and brothers who are the targets of this hate crime, and we will make a statement that this sort of intimidation cannot be part of the city or the world we build together,” said Rev. Donna Maree, of Trinity Memorial Church at 22nd and Spruce Streets. (Rain date: July 14 at 6 pm)

On July 20 at 7 pma public forum will be held to educate and inform residents about the severity of this act of intimidation, and to offer the opportunity for everyone to talk about its effects. “We will demonstrate that we will not be silent in the face of racism or complacent in our response to a challenge to community,” Rev. Maree added. The forum will be held at Trinity Memorial Church, 2212 Spruce Street.

Interfaith clergy leaders of Center City Philadelphia meet regularly for conversation and to plan events to draw together neighbors in order to build a better community. The group represents Buddhist, Christian, Humanist, Jewish and Muslim traditions, drawn together with the Center City Residents Association.

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